What you need to know about Detroit: The movie is based on a true story and firsthand accounts from those involved. “A police raid in Detroit in 1967 results in one of the largest RACE riots in United States history. The story is centered around the Algiers Motel incident, which occurred in Detroit, Michigan on July 25, 1967, during the racially charged 12th Street Riot. It involves the death of three black men and the brutal beatings of nine other people: seven black men and two white women.”

What works: An outstanding cast full of familiar faces and up and coming stars: John Boyega (The Force Awakens), Will Poulter (We’re the Millers), Algee Smith (The New Edition Story), Jason Mitchell (Straight Out of Compton), Hannah Murray (Game of Thrones), Jack Reynor (Sing Street), John Krasinski (The Office), Anthony Mackie (Avengers), etc. All actors gave a great performance. The story is told in a way that puts the viewer through the psychological warfare, few movies have you sitting on the edge of your seat for much of the film. It is a tough watch at times, but there is never anything easy to watch about racism. I also enjoyed how the film wraps up with images of the actual people the movie is based upon.

What doesn’t work: The first act is told more like a documentary on the History Channel than a big screen film. The movie feels its two and a half hour run time mostly due to the constant intensity of the story. That said, I wouldn’t change a thing.

These types of period piece/historic stories need to be told and for our society to be aware. Unfortunately, typical of movies that don’t make you feel good upon leaving the theater, you won’t have much in return viewership nor many who will talk-up the movie. This is a very very good movie and one I encourage all to see.

On a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the highest, I give Detroit an 8.2. Although you may not feel like eating while watching this film, it is worth a visit to concessions.